Rangers Highlights: Coaching Strategies, Offensive Tactics, Eovaldi’s Impact, Bradford’s Role
Rangers Announce Skip Schumaker as New Manager Amid Offseason Changes
The Texas Rangers made headlines yesterday by appointing Skip Schumaker as the new manager, following an end-of-season press conference that revealed additional insights about the team’s future. President of baseball operations Chris Young and General Manager Ross Fenstermaker provided valuable information regarding the managerial search, indicating a preference for internal candidates.
Skip Schumaker Promoted as Manager
As expected, the Rangers promoted Schumaker, who previously served as a senior advisor, to take over the managerial role from Bruce Bochy. This decision aligns with Young’s comments that the club was not actively scouting external candidates and had a lead candidate within its ranks. Schumaker’s deep knowledge of the organization is expected to foster continuity within the coaching staff.
Coaching Staff Considerations
The Rangers are open to retaining all current coaches for the upcoming season, with Young emphasizing that Schumaker will have input in selecting his own staff. One coach whose future seems secure is pitching coach Mike Maddux, who has a strong track record with the team.
Pitching Coach Mike Maddux’s Role
Maddux has been pivotal in the Rangers’ success, having logged three seasons in his second stint as pitching coach after initially serving from 2009 to 2015. The Rangers’ starting rotation excelled during the 2025 season, leading all of baseball with a 3.41 ERA. While the Rangers suffered from a lackluster offense that resulted in an 81-81 record, Maddux’s contributions continue to be acknowledged. The decision on Maddux’s return rests with him, as he weighs options within the organization against potential new opportunities.
Offensive Strategy Moving Forward
Young noted a shift in offensive strategy under hitting coach Bret Boone, who was hired earlier this season. The team emphasized a contract-driven approach, promoting contact over launch angles. Fenstermaker stated the Rangers aim to focus on acquiring players with stable skills, including:
- On-base percentage
- Ability to make contact
- Situational execution
This approach is intended to enhance the team’s performance moving into Spring Training.
Player Health Updates and Offseason Preparations
Several Rangers players who faced injuries late in the season are on track for normal offseasons, including Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, Wyatt Langford, Evan Carter, and Cole Winn. Jake Burger is also expected to be ready for Spring Training after his recent wrist surgery, with a recovery timeline of approximately 6-8 weeks.
Nathan Eovaldi’s Offseason Procedure
On the other hand, Nathan Eovaldi may face a delay in his offseason activities due to a potential sports hernia surgery. Fenstermaker confirmed that Eovaldi will consult a specialist soon, and depending on the outcome, his offseason preparations could be impacted. Eovaldi struggled with injuries throughout the 2025 season, limiting him to 130 innings and 22 starts.
Surprising Recovery for Cody Bradford
Cody Bradford’s recovery also offers a pleasant surprise, as he is expected to participate in Spring Training following an internal brace procedure in late June. Although he still has a long rehabilitation journey ahead, Bradford’s projected involvement in camp signifies encouraging progress.
As the Texas Rangers gear up for the new season, fans will be eager to see how these developments unfold, particularly under the leadership of Skip Schumaker. The emphasis on maintaining a strong, cohesive team will be critical as they strive to improve upon last year’s performance.
